The wedge-shaped site has been simply a dirt parking lot since buildings on the site were torn down in 2011. It sits between the city's most notorious crowded intersection and Crompton Place, home to BirchTree Bread Co., Crompton Collective and other retailers.

Harding Green follows behind another major Canal District project completed last year just two blocks up Harding Street. The $18-million Fidelity Bank Worcester Ice Center includes two hockey rinks for local teams, a gym, medical offices and two restaurants.